California light is different. Anyone who’s stood on the coast during golden hour knows it—it’s softer, warmer, almost cinematic. It’s no wonder Southern California has become a magnet for photographers, travelers, and anyone who wants to capture moments that last.
Here are some of the best spots we recommend for photographing sunsets, beaches, and landscapes in SoCal—many of which inspire our own work at CaliCuration.
1. Venice Beach & Santa Monica
Classic, but never cliché. The Venice Beach lifeguard towers painted in pastel light or the Santa Monica Pier glowing at dusk are staples of California photography. The energy here is unbeatable—urban edge meets coastal ease.
2. Malibu Canyons
Head inland just a bit, and you’ll find the rugged beauty of the Malibu canyon trails. Sunlight pours in differently here—less ocean sparkle, more texture and shadow. Perfect if you’re drawn to earthy, grounding imagery.
3. El Matador State Beach
Tucked away near Malibu, this spot is a dream for coastal landscapes. Rocky outcroppings, tide pools, and dramatic waves create a natural stage for one-of-a-kind photographs. Pro tip: go during low tide for the widest variety of shots.
4. Griffith Park & Los Angeles Overlooks
Not all California photography has to be ocean-focused. Griffith Park offers sweeping views of the city, with the Hollywood sign in the backdrop and sunsets that turn LA into a sea of orange and pink.
5. Laguna Beach & Crystal Cove
Further south, Laguna Beach and Crystal Cove serve up a softer, more relaxed coastline. These areas are goldmines for wide-angle shots and serene compositions—ideal if you want images that radiate calm.
Why Fall & Winter Make SoCal Even More Magical
There’s something especially enchanting about Southern California in the cooler months. While much of the country is wrapped in snow or gray skies, LA still glows. The light in Fall and Winter is sharper, crisper, and deeper in tone—sunsets burn richer, ocean blues darken beautifully, and the beaches feel calmer, more reflective.
Bringing that seasonal magic into your home can transform the way a space feels. Dedicate one room—maybe your living room, maybe your bedroom—to the SoCal vibe of Fall and Winter. Pair a Santa Monica sunset print with warm-toned candles, add a California coastline tote bag draped on a chair, or display a Malibu canyon photograph above your workspace. Together, these details create what we like to call the “CaliCuration glow”—a cozy, uplifting energy that carries the warmth of California light into even the coldest season.
For us at CaliCuration, these places aren’t just photography spots—they’re starting points for stories. A print of Malibu canyons isn’t just scenery; it’s a memory of the air, the sound of the breeze, the feeling of being there.
And here’s where we want your input: what places inspire you? When you travel, whether it’s California or halfway across the world, what’s the one view you wish you could keep forever? Send us your ideas at info@calicuration.com
